The Orange Volunteer Fire Department responded to a house fire on Sunday that hit hard, as it belonged to one of their own.The Fire Marshal’s office posted the details on its Facebook page:
On Sunday, August 13, the Orange Dispatch Center received a call for the report of the side of a house on fire. Upon sending out the initial dispatch, the Orange Volunteer Fire Chief immediately requested mutual aid from the Derby Fire Department as their station was closer, and Woodbridge Fire Department for tankers/water supply.
East End Hose Company arrived first and went to work in an effort to knock down the heavy fire found upon arrival.
Firefighters from all three towns, as well as staff from the Fire Marshal’s office, worked to ensure the fire was completely extinguished, primary and secondary searches for occupants revealed nobody was inside the residence, checked the environment inside the home, and begin an investigation.
While the fire is still under investigation by Fire Inspector Rossi, the area of origin was found to be on the lower level, where the fire burned undetected for an undetermined amount of time, which allowed it to burn through the floor into the upper level of the home, as well as breach a window and begin to burn the outside of the house; at which time a passerby smelled smoke, saw the fire and immediately called 9-1-1. While Inspector Rossi completes his investigation, we do know that the fire was accidental in nature.
Despite our best efforts, because the fire had plenty of time to burn undetected, there is severe damage to the home and its contents, and unfortunately, the house can not be occupied.
While every fire loss is very difficult, this one is particularly hard for not just the homeowners but the first responders as well, this home is owned by one of our own firefighters; Lisa Kaplan, and her husband Paul. Lisa is a decorated 13-year veteran with the fire department.
Lisa and Paul are VERY well-known throughout our community for their kindness, generosity, and willingness to help. Lisa retired last year after decades of a fantastic career as a school teacher with the Town of Orange Board of Education, and Paul has served and currently serves on town boards for quite some time.
You will never find a more amazing couple who are always willing to dive into anything and get their hands dirty and assist anyone in need. Luckily, they were not home (nor their adorable pup Teddy!) when the fire occurred.
Many have reached out to the fire department, Fire Marshal’s Office, and Board of Education asking what can be done to help Lisa and Paul. We are in the process of assisting with recovery and will be doing so for the next few weeks. I am certain there will be a joint effort between the volunteer Fire Chief and the Superintendent of Schools to help Lisa and Paul in any way they need. Until then, please feel free to leave a word of support for Lisa and Paul!